Tech Shout!

Epson has introduced three Ultra Hi-Definition photo printers that deliver the best quality professional-level prints to the home photo aficionado at astonishing print speeds. The Ultra Hi-Definition product line comprises of the Epson Stylus Photo R260, R380 photo printers, and the Epson Stylus Photo RX580 photo all-in-one.

Applying some of the same technologies that professionals rely on to produce striking and marketable art, Epson’s new Ultra Hi-Definition printers set a new standard in the photo printer category. The Epson Stylus Photo R260, R380 and RX580 sport DX5 Technology, which enables Epson’s patented MicroPiezo print head to deliver five sizes of ink droplets, as small as 1.5 picoliters, to produce microscopic droplets of Claria ink for grain-free photos. A key component of the new product line is Claria ink, the latest enhancement in Epson’s long line of ink innovations, delivering superior image quality with Ultra Hi-Definition richness, depth and clarity. With Claria ink and a newly designed print head, these products deliver the fastest photo print speeds of any previous Epson model, and print longevity that is superior to lab photos.

The R260 is the entry-level printer, capable of printing from PictBridge-enabled digital cameras and phones. The R380 adds a 3.5-inch color LCD and built-in memory card slots, with image selection, cropping, enlargement and printing capabilities built right in. You can also save photos to and print from external CDs, Zip or Flash memory drives, or print directly from Bluetooth-enabled devices using an optional adapter.

The RX580 adds scanning, printing and copying capabilities to the mix, and uses a 2.5-inch color LCD drive. It can scan at 48-bit, 1200 x 2400 dot per inch resolution, can restore and reprint old photos; duplicates photos and documents without needing a computer to be connected; and can make photo greeting cards.

The Stylus Photo R260 will be available in September for an estimated street price of $129.99. The Stylus Photo R380 and RX580 will be available in October for an estimated street price of $199.99.